Orlando, August 19, 2025
News Summary
The University of Memphis Pom Squad has secured the national championship in hip-hop dance after an eight-year wait, showcasing their remarkable talent at the ESPN Complex in Orlando. Under coach Carol Lloyd’s guidance, they overcame previous competition challenges, including a second-place finish in the Division 1A Hip-Hop finals. The squad’s victory not only honors their hard work but also celebrates the inspiring stories of team members, particularly those who have faced personal challenges. This win exemplifies dedication, resilience, and the evolution of competitive dance in Memphis.
Memphis – The University of Memphis Pom Squad has proudly reclaimed the national championship in hip-hop dance after an eight-year wait, marking a significant achievement for the team. The championship event took place at the ESPN Complex in Orlando, where the squad showcased their talent against tough competition.
Leading up to their victory, the Memphis Pom Squad had previously placed second in the Division 1A Hip-Hop finals, falling short to the University of Nevada Las Vegas. In that same tournament, they also finished fourth in the Division 1A Gameday category and eighth in the Division 1A Pom Finals, highlighting both the challenges and the progress made by the team over recent years.
Under the guidance of coach Carol Lloyd, the Pom Squad underwent a rigorous preparation process to ensure they were in peak condition for the competition. The triumph not only highlights the squadโs dedication but also encapsulates the team’s journey towards reclaiming their status in the competitive dance environment.
Among the notable stories emerging from the competition are dedicated team members Josie Fellers and Chloe Wells, who also share a hometown and a birthday. Their story is particularly inspiring, as both dancers are committed to pushing past personal challenges, including their family’s battle with cancer. This spirit of resilience among squad members has been a crucial motivating factor in their success.
The win is particularly meaningful for longtime supporters of the team and for former members, such as Cheri Ganong, who expressed her nerves during a game against Louisville in 1979 when the squad first decided to change their look by wearing unitards instead of traditional cheerleader uniforms. This evolution in style and performance reflects a broader trend within the Pom Squad towards embracing new and innovative dance styles while maintaining their competitive edge.
In related news, the Memphis Amateur Sports Hall of Fame is set to induct a new class on March 17, an event that underscores the region’s rich sports culture and honors outstanding athletes from various fields.
The triumph of the University of Memphis Pom Squad serves as a reminder of the strenuous preparation, talent, and teamwork required to excel in the world of competitive dance. As the team looks forward to future competitions, their recent win will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration and a benchmark to continue striving for excellence.
Facts and Figures
- Competition Location: ESPN Complex, Orlando
- Previous Rankings: 2nd in Division 1A Hip-Hop, 4th in Division 1A Gameday, 8th in Division 1A Pom Finals
- Coach: Carol Lloyd
- Notable Members: Josie Fellers and Chloe Wells
- Induction Date for Hall of Fame: March 17
Key Highlights of the University of Memphis Pom Squad’s Journey
| Year | Performance Category | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Hip-Hop | Champion |
| 2025 | Gameday | 4th Place |
| 2025 | Pom Finals | 8th Place |
| 2023 | Hip-Hop | 2nd Place |
| 2023 | Gameday | 4th Place |
| 2023 | Pom Finals | 8th Place |
FAQ Section
What recent achievement did the University of Memphis Pom Squad accomplish?
The University of Memphis Pom Squad won the national championship in hip-hop dance after an eight-year hiatus.
Where did the championship competition take place?
The competition was held at the ESPN Complex in Orlando.
Who is the current coach of the Pom Squad?
The Pom Squad is currently coached by Carol Lloyd.
What was the squad’s previous performance before this championship?
Before their recent championship win, the team placed second in the Division 1A Hip-Hop finals in 2023.
What notable story is associated with the team members Josie Fellers and Chloe Wells?
Josie Fellers and Chloe Wells, both teammates, share a hometown and birthday, and they are determined not to let cancer affect their ambitions.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Dailymemphian: Memphis Pom and Cheri Ganong
- Go Tigers Go: 2019-20 Pom Squad Members
- Action News 5: U of M Pom Squad Wins
- Go Tigers Go: 2020-21 Pom Squad Announced
- Go Tigers Go: Spirit Squad Tryout Results
- Wikipedia: University of Memphis
- Google Search: University of Memphis Pom Squad
- Google Scholar: University of Memphis Pom Squad
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University of Memphis
- Google News: University of Memphis Pom Squad
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